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Orecchiette with Anchovies and Almond Pesto

17/11/2023

Orecchiette with anchovies and almond pesto is a dish that expertly combines the bold flavor of anchovies with the sweetness of almonds, a typical Italian reinterpretation of a pasta dish with pesto. Here’s how to prepare this tasty dish:

Ingredients

  • 320 g of orecchiette
  • 200 g of fresh or salted anchovies (if salted, desalt them first)
  • 100 g of peeled almonds
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • A bunch of fresh parsley
  • Hot pepper (optional, to taste)
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste

Preparation

  1. Start by preparing the almond pesto. Lightly toast the almonds in a pan without adding fats. When they are golden brown, transfer them to a blender.
  2. Add garlic (with the internal sprout removed if you prefer a milder taste), parsley, a pinch of salt, and blend everything gradually adding extra virgin olive oil until you get a smooth cream. If you want a spicy touch, also add a piece of hot pepper to the blender.
  3. Clean the anchovies by removing the head and innards, then open each anchovy like a book. If you are using salted anchovies, do not forget to desalt them by soaking them in water for a few hours and then proceed as described.
  4. Sauté the anchovies in a pan with a drizzle of olive oil and another clove of garlic. Be careful not to overcook them; they should only soften.
  5. Cook the orecchiette in a pot with plenty of salted water and, once ready, drain them, keeping some of the cooking water.
  6. Pour the orecchiette into the pan with the anchovies and add the almond pesto. If the mixture is too thick, add some of the pasta cooking water to make it creamier.
  7. Mix well to flavor the pasta with the sauce, and if necessary, adjust the salt.

Serve the orecchiette hot and, if you wish, you can add a sprinkle of chopped almonds before serving for a crunchy touch.

Curiosity

Orecchiette is a specialty of the Puglia region and traditionally made by hand. The name comes from their shape that resembles little ears. In this case, the combination with almond pesto and anchovies creates a dish that celebrates the flavor of the sea with a crunchy and aromatic note typical of the Mediterranean cuisine.

Orecchiette with anchovies and almond pesto